EDUCATION & OUTREACH

Our Water System

MAWSS provides safe, reliable and affordable drinking water that contributes to our overall quality of life.

Our Water System

MAWSS drinking water meets and often exceeds all federal and state standards for safety.

Our two water treatment facilities have been recognized as Optimized Plants by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management or ADEM, meaning they consistently maintain treatment standards that are over and above those required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and ADEM, providing an extra level of protection for public health.

Facts about the Water System

Water supply comes from J.B. Converse Reservoir (better known as Big Creek Lake). The 3,600 acre man-made lake, built in 1952, is the source of all drinking water and most raw water.

Approximately 60 Million Gallons a Day (MGD) of water is pumped through the S. Palmer Gaillard Pumping Station and transmitted by means of two 60-inch diameter pipes to reservoirs at MAWSS’ two Water Treatment Facilities (WTF).

MAWSS serves the City of Mobile, parts of Mobile County and Semmes, Prichard, Chickasaw and Spanish Fort.

Burton S. Butler River System supplies raw water from the Mobile River to industrial customers through the Bucks Pumping Station. Another reservoir and pumping station is located in Saraland near Salco Lake. Both the Butler and Gaillard Stations supply raw water for industry.

Average daily delivery of water : 41 Million Gallons a Day (MGD); Peak day delivery: 48 MGD

Miles of water distribution and transmission lines: Approx. 2200

5 reservoirs

9 storage tanks, elevated and ground storage (approx. 3 day supply)

13 Booster Stations

12,514 Fire Hydrants

90,000 Water Meters

School Tours

MAWSS conducts water treatment facility tours for school groups during regular business hours. These tours require walking outdoors, walking over catwalks and navigating some ladders. Slacks are suggested for girls. Closed toe shoes are required.